Foods To Consume Or Avoid To Manage Gastritis
Foods to consume or avoid to manage gastritis
Gastritis, in some cases, can be a result of damage or injury to the stomach lining or can even be the result of an autoimmune response in the body. However, this stomach condition is primarily a result of H.pylori infection, which can cause acute or chronic gastritis. Common symptoms include nausea, bloating, indigestion, and abdominal pain. Approximately 30% to 35% of the adults in the country suffer from gastritis.
Approximately 30% to 35% of the adults in the country suffer from gastritis. While to many, it may sound like a scary health complication, it is actually one of the more manageable conditions among common stomach disorders. While doctors recommend the use of antacids for relief, mild to moderate discomforts can be easily managed with home remedies. Herein, we discuss foods that help manage the condition and advise on the foods that you should avoid during treatment.
Best foods to eat while suffering from gastritis
- Honey
Honey is no doubt a versatile ingredient that you can incorporate in many foods and beverages. A simple solution for gastritis, you can use it as a spread or add a couple of teaspoons to your lemon tea. It is rich in anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that work extremely well against H.pylori bacteria. - Broccoli
You can have it raw, roasted, or even boiled. Broccoli is one such vegetable that can be cooked many ways to make it delicious. It is also rich in sulforaphane, a nutrient that has proven to be quite effective against H.pylori bacteria. Broccoli sprouts contain about 50 times more nutrients than the florets and must be had to fight the condition and kill gut bacteria. Alternatively, you can also buy sulforaphane-rich broccoli supplements online or from the local health store in your neighborhood. - Garlic
H.pylori bacteria are extremely sensitive to garlic. It is rich in antimicrobial and antifungal agents that counter the effects of the infection. One of the simpler and more effective ways to use this highly potent veggie is to crush the garlic cloves and drink its extract. You can also buy readymade garlic extract available at the local store, but ensure that it is aged for a couple of months for maximum potency and effect against gastritis. - Probiotics
Probiotics are essentially the good bacteria that help your digestive system function properly. The healthy bacteria helps repair the lining of the intestinal tract that has been damaged by H.pylori. Among popular foods rich in probiotics, kimchi, yogurt, sourdough bread, sauerkraut, and kefir are easily available at the local grocery store.
Foods to avoid while suffering from gastritis
- High-fat foods
Foods that are rich in fat may worsen the inflammation caused due to gastritis. You must eliminate processed foods like ready-to-eat meals, store-bought foods and all foods that have been deep fried. - Dairy
Other than yogurt, dairy products like milk, cream, and cheese are foods that you must avoid for gastritis. Dairy products are rich in amino acids and calcium that can cause acid reflux. - Citrus-rich fruits
Citrus can irritate the stomach lining and cause acid reflux. It is an unpleasant feeling but avoidable if you eliminate lemons, oranges, limes, and grapefruits among other citrus-rich fruits. Avoid their consumption in all forms until the symptoms of gastritis can be managed. - Beverages
Flavored soda, energy drinks, alcohol, and even coffee irritate the stomach lining and result in acid reflux. It is a good idea to eliminate these beverages from a proper gastritis diet for a speedy and effective recovery.